To open Command Prompt, type cmd in the search bar of your Windows taskbar and hit Enter.
Welcome to Command Prompt (CMD)!
This guide provides an easy-to-follow introduction to Command Prompt, also known as CMD, which is a command-line interpreter available on Windows operating systems. It is used to execute entered commands and perform advanced administrative functions, automate tasks via scripts and batch files, and troubleshoot and solve certain kinds of Windows issues.
By the end of this guide, you will understand the basics of using CMD, including common commands and their applications.
Why should I use CMD?
CMD allows direct interaction with the operating system via a command-line interface. This can be much faster than graphical interfaces for certain tasks, especially repetitive or batch operations. It’s also a powerful tool for system management and can often help in troubleshooting system issues.
Challenges of CMD
For users accustomed to graphical interfaces, CMD can seem daunting. The command-line interface requires precise syntax and understanding of command functions, which might be a steep learning curve for some.
What You'll Need
To start using CMD, you'll need:
- A PC running Windows.
- Basic knowledge of command-line interface operations.
CMD Basics
In this section, we'll cover the foundational elements of using CMD:
- How to open Command Prompt.
- Common commands like
dir,cd,copy,del, and how to use them. - Creating and executing simple batch files.
Practical Example
We'll go through a practical example where you'll use CMD to create a directory, list directory contents, and create a text file: